RAMAKATHA RASAVAHINI – PART – I [4]

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RAMAKATHA RASAVAHINI – PART – I [4]

The Rama Story, Stream of Sacred Sweetness

As told by the Divine Lord Himself in the present Avatar as Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

7(b)Winning Sita

"Rama! The ministers then crowned Amsumanta, after consulting the will of the

people. He ruled over the kingdom without the slightest error or fault, for he

was strong in morality and spiritual excellence. The people were fostered as if

they were children born from his own loins. When old age crept on him, he

offered the throne to Dileepa, his son, and proceeded to the Himalayas for the

ascetic disciplines he wanted to impose on himself. His aim was not only

self-realisation; he sought to bring down the Ganga for the sake of the

salvation of the departed uncles. But, he too had to give up his body without

fulfilling the desire.

"Dileepa was also moved by the same wish for, he knew how deeply his father and

grandfather had longed for the consummation, bringing the Ganga down on earth!

He tried various means. He performed many abstruse Yajnas on the advice of

sages. Pangs of sorrow that he could not fulfill the family ideal invaded him

and he became chronically ill. Seeing that physical strength and mental stamina

were declining, he placed his son Bhagiratha on the throne; he entrusted to him

the mission that was beyond his grasp, namely, bringing the Ganga down. Soon

after, Dileepa too left the earth.

"Bhagiratha, bright with spiritual splendor, vowed that he must succeed in the

task allotted to him by his father. Though he ruled the kingdom very

satisfactorily, he was sad that he had no children to maintain the line. This,

as well as the supreme task of getting the Ganga, forced him to hand over the

reins of government to the ministers and retire into the silence of the famous

Gokarna Kshetra. He stood there practicing austere penances like bearing the

heat of the sun and taking food only once a month! At last appreciating his

austerity, God appeared before him and said, 'Son! Bhagiratha! Ask any boon you

wish for, it shall be granted.'

"Bhagiratha had the Vision of the One with the brilliance of a thousand Suns. He

fell prostrate, overwhelmed with gratitude and devotion. He prayed, ‘Lord! Cause

the Celestial Ganga to flow on earth, so that my great-grandfathers might be

saved from perdition, and be restored to Heaven. And, favour me with children

so that the Ikshwaku Royal Line might not be rendered extinct, with me as its

last representative. May the dynasty continue and flourish’. He held fast the

Feet of the Lord and submitted his supplication.

"The Lord replied, ‘Son! The first of your wishes is very hard to fulfill.

Nevertheless, I shall grant you that one. The boon for the royal line? Yes. You

will have a noble son and your dynasty will continue and flourish. Arise!' At

this, Bhagiratha rose and the Lord continued, ‘Bhagiratha! Ganga is swollen and

swift; when it falls from heaven, the earth will not be able to bear the impact.

So, as Ruler of the Earth, you have to ponder over the problem and discover

means by which dire disaster can be avoided. When the Ganga descends upon the

earth, the effect will be calamitous. So, the river must be made to fall first

on the head of Siva; from there, the waters may be led on to earth with

lessened impact. This is the best course, from the point of view of the

inhabitants of the earth. Consider this well.' After

saying this, the Lord withdrew.

"From thence, Bhagiratha began austerities to propitiate Siva and at last, he

succeeded in winning His favour and His consent to receive Ganga direct on His

Head, when it descends from Heaven. And so it happened that the Ganga fell on

Siva and flowed down from His Head on to the earth, in seven distinct streams -

Hladini Nalini and Pavani flowed east, Subhikshu, Sitha and Sindhu flowed west,

and the seventh stream followed the footsteps of Bhagiratha to where he led it,

namely, the place where the ashes of his great-grandfathers lay in heaps,

awaiting rescue from hell.

"It flowed along the route that Bhagiratha took and all along the route, men

benefited from the sacred stream and sanctified themselves. They were released

from the effects of the sins, by the cleansing influence of the celestial

Ganga. The great-grandfathers too were redeemed by the performance of obsequies

on the bank of the thrice-holy stream, and with its waters.

"Since Bhagiratha brought the Ganga to earth, the river got the name,

Bhagirathi! After the ceremonies for the manes were over, Bhagiratha returned

to Ayodhya. Happy that he could fulfill through Divine Grace the keenest wishes

of his father and grandfather, he ruled over the empire for many years receiving

the spontaneous homage of his contented subjects. At last, he too left the

body."

When Vishwamitra narrated the story of Rama’s forefathers thus, Rama and

Lakshmana were all attention; they were enraptured with the incidents. But, the

Sage said it was already midnight and they could all go to bed and sleep. So,

they prostrated before the Preceptor and laid themselves on the thick sands of

the river itself. Rama and Lakshmana could not sleep; they reclined on the

sands, only in obedience to the order of their preceptor, not because they

needed rest! They lay picturing to themselves the wonderful story of the

descent of Ganga from heaven to earth, till they found that morning had

arrived! There they performed the ablutions and morning rituals in the river

and prepared soon for the journey ahead. As soon as some teenage disciples

announced that the ferryboat was ready, all moved towards it and

took their seats and crossed the holy river. They reached the northern bank and

started on the further stages of their journey, admiring the heartening

forest-scenery through which they passed.

When they had covered some distance, they came upon a vast city full of

beautiful buildings. Rama turned to Vishwamitra, and asked him, "Master! We are

seeing from here in this exquisite forest a vast City. To what kingdom does it

belong?" The sage replied, "Rama! It appears to be near, but, in fact, it will

take quite some time for us to reach it! Perhaps, we may arrive there in the

evening hours. I shall tell you the story of that City's origin and fortunes

when we actually reach it. Meanwhile, let us proceed". Rama heard these words,

which the sage spoke with a twinkle in the eye and a smile on the lips; he

grasped the meaning of his directive and walked on without a word in reply.

When they descended into the valley there was no sign of any City or human

habitation; but, on rising to the heights, the City could be seen very near!

Moving forward like this, they found that though evening drew near they could

not reach the City. As Vishwamitra had already indicated the City was still far

away! As evening fell they halted; and after bath, they performed the evening

rituals as laid down in the Sastras. While resting, Rama returned to the

question he had already asked. "Master! Will you kindly tell us about the

City?" At this, Vishwamitra said, "Rama! I too was just now thinking about that

matter! Though I know that you are aware of the working of every mind, still,

the veil of Maya (taking the appearance as real) hides the fact and

precipitates men into misleading tracks. All cannot be masters

of the mind. When persons like me find it impossible to keep it under control,

there is no need to dilate on the fate of ordinary men! The very moment the

thought flashed in my mind that you had forgotten to ask about the story of the

City, you questioned me about it! No further proof is wanted to show that you

are the All-knowing!

"Rama! In ancient times, Kashyap had two wives, Aditi and Diti. The sons of Diti

were repositories of physical might and the sons of Aditi, of moral grandeur.

They grew up mightier and mightier with each passing day. The parents derived

great joy, watching them grow up so fair and fast.

"One day, the sons of both Diti and Aditi gathered together and entered into a

discussion on means of avoiding old age. Finally, they came to the conclusion

that the Amrit or Nectar that can be secured by churning the Ocean of Milk will

prevent the physical calamities of disease, senility, and death. Soon, they set

about that task. The Mandaara Peak was plucked and placed in the Ocean as the

Churning Rod; the serpent Vasuki was chosen as the rope, to be wound round the

rod so that the rope might rotate quickly and fast. While the churning

continued for a long time, the serpent Vasuki began vomiting its poison. It was

enraged so much as a result of the pain that its fangs struck against the rocks

of the mountain peak. The poison fume raged as a huge fire!

"Seeing this, the sons of Diti and Aditi became mortally afraid; they felt they

would be burnt into ashes in that holocaust! They prayed for succor to the

Lord. When Lord Vishnu appeared before them, the sons of Diti pleaded

pathetically, ‘Lord! Save us! Put an end to this dread disaster’ and the Lord

changed into Siva and said, ‘Dear Ones! I am the eldest of the Gods and so, I

am entitled to receive the first fruit of this churning process' Declaring

thus, He drank off without delay the Halahala poison that was causing the

panic.

"Thereafter, the sons of Diti and Aditi continued the churning of the Ocean.

Another calamity threatened them now; the Mandara Peak started sinking! So,

they prayed again to the Lord Vishnu. He appeared again and assured them,

‘Darling children! Do not become frightened’. The Lord assumed the Form of a

Tortoise, and getting underneath the mountain peak raised it on His back and

kept it safe on the hard shell so long as the churning lasted. The sons of

Kashyap were immensely grateful and happy. They extolled the Lord in profusion.

"From out of the Ocean of Milk, there emerged a God with a Danda (Stick) and

Kamandalu Water pot in His Hands! His name was Dhanvantari. Even as the sons of

Diti and Aditi were looking at Him, there emerged again from the Ocean thick

sweet juice or Rasa, which got rolled into a ball, which, in turn, soon swelled

and broke, disclosing a bevy of maidens. Since they were born of Rasa, they are

named, Apsaras. They tried in many ways to persuade the sons of Diti and Aditi

to wed them; they prayed and petitioned; but all their efforts were of no

avail; so, they lived without being wedded, free and fickle. Then, from out of

the waves rose the daughter of the water-god; Varuni and she had a chalice full

of intoxicating liquor. The sons of Diti refused to have anything to do with the

liquor! The sons of Aditi quaffed

it. Those who did not accept the Sura (liquor) were known as Asuras, and those

who accepted it, as Suras.

"At last, from that Ocean of Milk arose the Amrit (Nectar). Who were to drink

the Amrit? There arose a huge conflict between the sons of Diti and Aditi. In

the terrible fight that ensued, the sons of Aditi began destroying the sons of

Diti. The battle threatened to become a battle of extinction. The earth shook

under the thrust and counter-thrust of weaponry in that battle. Fear and

anxiety spread their dark clouds over the world. Suddenly, Vishnu appeared

before the contending parties as an entrancingly charming damsel, who

captivated the hearts of all and led their minds away from the combat into

which they had plunged! She charmed everyone and during her appearance, the

precious Amrit disappeared! The sons of Diti had all died. The grief of the

mother was beyond consolation. Kashyap failed to bring her to the

state of normalcy. His attempts to teach her the evanescence of things failed to

convince her. She wailed aloud and lamented most excruciatingly as if the end of

the world had come.

At last Diti brought herself round; she approached Kashyap and submerging her

agony deep into her mind, she said, ‘Lord! Is this just? We both had children

by you. Now I have been made childless. Is this fair? Am I to grieve eternally

thus? Not even one of my sons is alive. Rather than have many short-lived sons,

one long living one is most desirable, isn't it?’ When she wept aloud in this

manner, Kashyap consoled her and told her to enter on Thapas (the discipline of

austerities to propitiate the Gods) so that she might have a son who will live

long. He advised her to give up her grief, which could never fulfill her

desire. Encouraged by him and seeking his blessings she left immediately and

started Thapas, with the professed aim of securing the boon from the Gods, of a

son who will be able to defeat the Lord

of Gods, Indra Himself!

"Kashyap told her, 'Thapas is no easy discipline. One has to be pure until the

very end; one has to observe the vows and fasts, without the least

infringement; then only will the Gods be pleased and grant the boon’.

"Diti reached the region known as Kusaplava and entered upon rigorous

asceticism. Knowing her resolve, Indra desired to test her and came to her in

the guise of her attendant. Diti's prayer was answered; she became pregnant

with child through Divine Grace. Days passed, months rolled by, Indra was

beside her, as attendant! One day, in the hot hours of noon, overcome by sleep,

she lay on the bed with her hair loose and her head placed where the feet were

usually placed. This was against the strict rules of ceremonial purity, which

she had to observe with tenacity. So, Indra got his chance; He noted that her

posture was heterodox and contrary to Sastraic injunctions. So He punished her,

by fragmenting the foetus in her womb. The fragments started weeping inside the

womb for their limbs and segments, which had

broken away; the attendant, Indra spoke softly to them, 'Maa ruda' 'Don't weep'!

Diti had terrible bouts of bleeding, she lamented her fate and wept most

pitiably.

"Indra stood before her with folded palms and pleaded, ‘Mother; pardon me. You

acted contrary to the rules of ceremonial purity and so, broke the vow. Your

hair was unbound and loose; and your head was on the bed where the feet are

normally kept. When you slept thus, your Thapas was defiled; when the enemy who

is waiting for a chance to foil your fortune gets such an opportunity, will he

keep quiet? I am Indra come in this form. You prayed for a son who would kill

me, didn’t you? The foetus in the womb was to destroy me and so I took that

chance to foil my foe. And I did not destroy him through condemnable tactics.

You know that strict observance of the vow was essential for the success of

your plan; you had to ensure that you did not violate the code. The foetus has

been cut into seven fragments and I have

spoken 'Maa ruda’ to them. So, they will be born as the seven Godly Maruthas,

(Wind Gods); I am conferring on you this boon', Indra said thus and returned to

Heaven.

"Rama! This is the place where Indra and Diti had this dialogue and this

compromise. Here, Ikshwaku had a son, by Alamba Devi, who was named Visala.

This kingdom is called Visala after him. Visala begot Hemachandra, the mighty.

He begot Subhadra, and he had as son, Doomraswa, whose son was called Srnjaya;

Srnjaya's son was Sahadeva.

"Sahadeva was very rich and prosperous; he was a strong pillar of morality and

righteousness; he was a valiant ruler of the kingdom for a very long period.

His son Somadatta had Kakustha born to him; Sumathi was the son of that heroic

monarch. He too was a very upright virtuous ruler; in purity and holiness he

was equal to the Gods. Rama! This day, we shall enter this Visala City and

sleep there; we shall reach the city of Emperor Janaka tomorrow."

When they heard these words all were happy. Messengers communicated the news of

the arrival of Vishwamitra to Sumathi and he rushed forward to the Sage, with a

retinue of courtiers, ministers, scholars and priests, praying that he should

enter the City and sanctify the Royal palace by his stay.

Vishwamitra was pleased with his humility and reverence. He inquired sweetly

about his health and happiness, as well as about his kingdom. They were engaged

in conversation for some time on the affairs of the kingdom and dynasty when

Sumathi’s eyes fell on the brothers, Rama and Lakshmana. He was so enchanted by

their charm and dignity that he asked Vishwamitra, who these ‘lion cubs’ were.

Vishwamitra replied, "Sumathi! That is a long story; I have no time now to tell

you. I shall relate to you the whole story on reaching your place." He then

directed the monks and ascetics who had accompanied him, as well as the two

brothers, Rama and Lakshmana, to proceed to the City of Visala; he too rose and

walked, Sumathi talking with him all the while on matters pertaining to the

kingdom. On their reaching the City gate,

music from many voices and instruments rent the air; Brahmins recited hymns of

welcome and good wishes from the scriptures.

After partaking of the Reception feast arranged by the King of Visala,

Vishwamitra described to the gathering of royal kinsmen, priests and pundits,

his own Siddhasram and the Yajna that he had celebrated therein, as well as the

heroic way in which Rama and Lakshmana stood guard, to defend the sacrificial

precincts from marauding demons. All those who listened to the skill and

courage of the princes were struck with wonder and boundless Ananda. They

looked on them with admiration, and felt that they are Nara-Narayana come again

they prostrated before them, overcome by feelings of reverence.

Since it was already late, Rama and Lakshmana fell at the feet of Vishwamitra

and, taking his permission, they went over to the house that was specially set

apart for their rest. Even before dawn, they rose, went through the morning

ablutions, performed the matinal rites, and came to their Preceptor, in good

time to proceed on the next stage of the journey. They expressed gratitude to

King Sumathi, and moved on towards Mithila.

Sumathi accompanied them for some distance and then took leave of the sage and

others. Vishwamitra walked on with his disciples and the Princes; by noon they

reached an expansive park. It appeared as if it could boast of a number of

hermitages inside it years ago, but now the dwellings had crumbled. One could

see also altars once maintained with loving attention, and spots where the

sacred fire was once lit and fed. Rama noted that it was a place sanctified by

ascetics and sages and he drew the attention of Vishwamitra to his surmise.

Vishwamitra smiled, and said, "Rama! How correctly you have observed! I am very

glad. I shall inform you why the great personage who resided in this place left

it and went away. Listen!

"Even the gods used to acclaim this Hermitage. This is the hermitage of Gauthama

Maharshi. For many years, he resided here with his wife, Ahalya. He gladly

under-went the most severe austerities. He did many elaborate Yajnas. This park

was resplendent with spiritual grandeur; it was bright and full of peace and

joy. Every day was a holy day for the people here. Ahalya, the wife of the

sage, was a woman of great virtue, and a perfect paragon of beauty. There was

no one equal to her in personal beauty and charm; so, Gauthama was keeping her

ever under watch, and guarding her with vigilant care. One day, while Gauthama

was absent at the ashram, Indra, the chief of the Gods, came into the hermitage

in the guise of Gauthama himself! The virtuous spouse took Him to be her Lord;

she served him reverentially but the

real Gauthama entered and, discovered her apparent faithlessness. He recognised

Indra, in spite of his disguise, and became terribly enraged. 'Evil-minded

fellow’ he shouted; but Indra had suddenly disappeared.

"He turned towards Ahalya in his anger and roared, ‘You have vowed to destroy

this hermitage by indulging in vice, is it? I shall not be here a minute

longer. I cannot tolerate the sight of your face. Be prostrate behind some

bush, living as a sprite on air, with no food or drink. I am off’. Gauthama

hated the place that had been desecrated by deceit.

"Ahalya wept her heart out, and pleaded that she was innocent of sin, that she

was deceived by the disguise and activated by reverence towards her lord only,

that she was carried away by the duty of loyalty to her husband. She held his

feet and prayed for pardon. Gauthama melted a little at her importunities; the

truth became clear to him; but since words once spoken could not be withdrawn,

he said, ‘Ahalya! You know that I have vowed never to go against the spoken

word. Therefore, you have to lie in bush and briar, sad and starving, until

Rama, son of Dasaratha, comes this way and seeing you, He will shower Grace on

you, allowing you to touch His Feet, and He will speak with you in great

compassion; the Darshan, Sparshan and Sambashan will cleanse you, and you will

shine forth in your real form and charm. I

shall then rejoin you.’ So saying, Gauthama left this place and hastened to the

Himalayan region. From that moment, Ahalya lost her name and form; she lives on

air, and is deeply lost in austerity, eager to rejoin her lord. And, this once

lovely park suffered neglect."

When Vishwamitra narrated this tale, Ramachandra expressed great surprise,

"What! You are telling me that she is waiting for me! Poor thing! If you can

make me know where she is, deep in austerity … tell me where." As Rama moved

on, Vishwamitra and Lakshmana followed him at some distance. He passed through

some tangled bushes and entered a hut, behind a bush of briar.

Ahalya was until that moment immersed in austerity; she was far away from the

eyes of Gods, demons and men; she had forgotten her Name and lost her Form; she

had no concern with food and sleep; she was merely existing as a piece of rock!

She appeared like the orb of the Moon, well hidden by clouds, or the

sacrificial fire, covered by thick curtains of smoke! As Rama neared her, his

foot touched Ahalya.

Ahalya raised her head and seeing the Divinely charming Form of Rama, she held

the Feet, exclaiming in ecstasy, "Ah! I am saved0 God, come to save me from

sin! Your heart is moved at last". She poured out her gratitude in many hymns

of praise. She rose, like the moon from behind the clouds, effulgent and fresh.

At that moment Gauthama too who was a master of the mysteries of yoga, appeared

before them for he knew that Rama had come, and rescued his wife. He accepted

her, purified by rigorous austerity, and blessed by Rama. Both husband and wife

fell at the Feet of Rama and Lakshmana, who were both overwhelmed by the Ananda

they had. Gauthama offered reverence and homage to Vishwamitra. The band of

disciples was amazed at the wonder they had witnessed; they looked on at the

brothers with the fixed gaze of

wonder. Vishwamitra took leave of Gauthama, and walked on, in the northeasterly

direction, with Rama and Lakshmana by his side.

They neared a City, by evening. The sage pointed to the City from a distance

saying, "That is Mithila, that vast concourse of magnificent buildings!" At

this, the Brothers as well as the disciples of the sage jumped with joy; they

could not contain their happiness. From that spot, they walked faster.

Forgetful of physical exhaustion, they quickly reached the main entrance of the

City.

Wherever they turned, they saw ascetics and Brahmins engaged in the recitation

of the Vedas. They saw many houses where sacrificial fires were fed with ritual

offerings. Under every tree, sheltering in its shade, were groups of people

around the bullock carts which had brought them from the countryside. There

were men and women, old and young, with children belonging to all castes and

professions, persons from all stages of life assembled at every corner; it was

like moving in a stream of joy. The City was packed with eager people moving

crisscross on all the roads. The sage and his followers reached the embankment

of a tank which was comparatively less crowded; for, they had to decide where

they were to stay, and they were not yet quite sure where. The time for evening

ablutions had drawn near and, so, they

kept their belongings on the bank, took their bath and finished the rites prescribed.

Since the Yajna was imminent, courtiers and warriors from the palace were moving

among the monks that were arriving every hour, trying to find out their names,

the Gurus and hermitages to which they were affiliated, their spiritual status,

and whether they had been specially invited for the occasion. Emperor Janaka was

insisting that all such information was to be communicated to him without delay.

Meanwhile, Vishwamitra had finished his ablutions and rites; he sat on the

embankment with his disciples and the Brothers, who looked like twin stars

fallen upon the Earth from Heaven. He was describing to them the glories of

Mithila. Meanwhile, a courier from the court approached them very politely and

enquired, "Master! Please tell me who you are. Where have you come from? We are

messengers from the King. We are only obeying orders and carrying out our duty.

If you tell us your name, we can inform the King of your arrival."

When the messenger hurried straight to the Palace and told the Emperor Janaka

that the Sage Vishwamitra had arrived, he made arrangements appropriate for the

reception of the great Sage and sent the chief Brahmins, Priests and Pundits of

the Court under their leader, Sathananda, to where Vishwamitra was.

The group from the palace approached the embankment, reciting Vedic hymns of

welcome and good wishes, and Vishwamitra realised that they were coming to take

them to the Emperor’s Presence. He directed Rama and Lakshmana to prepare

themselves for proceeding with him. Every one made himself ready. Meanwhile,

Sathananda honoured Vishwamitra in true Vedic tradition, as befitted a great

Master. He fell at his feet; he offered refreshments consecrated with Vedic

formulae and announced with exemplary humility that he had come with others,

under orders from the Emperor to accord him and all those who were with him,

the most sincere welcome. They left a palanquin at the place to bring the bags

and baggage of the party and took the Sage and others into the City preceded by

bands of musicians, playing on their

instruments.

As soon as they entered the Royal Road, Emperor Janaka himself moved towards

them accompanied by Ministers and courtiers and his nearest kinsmen. Janaka

fell prostrate before Vishwamitra saying, "Lord! I have realised today my

greatest ambition. Mathila has acquired, with your arrival, a unique splendor."

He then enquired about the welfare of the Sage, his pupils and disciples. His

eyes fell on the two boys, Rama and Lakshmana. They struck him as embodiments

of solar effulgence. He could not find words for a few seconds. He knew not

where he was at the time. With great effort, he recovered enough awareness of

the surroundings to ask Vishwamitra "Master! who are these? They strike me as

the twin Gods, the Ashwini Devas. It looks as if they have just come down from

Heaven in order to confer Grace on me. They have

the tender Divine charm of those Gods. Or, perhaps, they are the Sun and the

Moon come upon the Earth. How did these juvenile embodiments of beauty happen

to come, walking the distance as members of the group led by you? Or, did they

develop acquaintance with you near here and come with you?" Janaka was pouring

out one query after another, as if he was talking to himself, forgetful where

he was or what he really wanted to know.

Vishwamitra saw his plight and could not restrain his smile. He said, "These are

the sons of Emperor Dasaratha of Ayodhya. Their names are Rama and Lakshmana.

The valor and skill of these boys are amazing and miraculous". The sage desired

to say much more, but, he thought it better to tell him all about them, after

reaching the place where they were to stay. So, they walked on towards the

quarters set apart for Vishwamitra and his entourage.

Chapter 7©Winning Sita

It was a pretty little new temple-like structure, situated in the centre of a

lovely garden; it was tastefully decorated with greens and festoons. The place

was heavy with silence; it was as if peace fell in heavy showers there from the

wings of Grace from heaven itself. It was quite adjacent to the Royal Palace.

Therefore, after showing them in, Janaka fell at the feet of the sage again,

saying: "Your arrival has added unto me immeasurable strength and joy. I am

sure this fortune came to me as a result of the merit earned in many lives. I

shall now take leave. For the Yajna to begin, there is an interval of twelve

days, according to the Rthwiks. Please therefore stay on in this Mithila city

itself and bless me". Vishwamitra assured him that he had no

objection to his proposal, and removed all apprehensions on that score from the

mind of Janaka. Rama and Lakshmana looked at each other, as if that was too

long a time to be away!

Arrangements were made to give them rest and undisturbed sleep that night; milk,

fruits and other articles were provided for them from the palace. "I shall take

your Darshan at dawn tomorrow", said Janaka while leaving. "It is not proper to

delay your rest any longer, for you had a long and tiresome journey". Janaka

returned to the palace, with the pundits, priests and scholars. Rama and

Lakshmana talked among themselves about the devotion and humility of the

Emperor, and the Light of Peace and joy that shone on his face. They sat by the

side of the Master and partook of the fruits and milk. Then, they departed after

receiving permission, to their apartment for rest.

That night, they slept well. When daylight spread slowly over the City, the

music of pipe and drum rose from their doorstep. Brahmins recited Vedic hymns.

Rama and Lakshmana rose and finished their bath and other rituals, and

approached Vishwamitra. The sage gave them cups of milk to drink and said,

"Sons! Janaka will be here any time now. Take breakfast and be ready". Soon,

they as well as the younger pupils of the Sage repaired to the apartments and

partook of fruits and milk. They washed their hands and quietly gathered around

their Preceptor, and reverentially sat near him.

Meanwhile, it became known that Emperor Janaka was arriving with the Royal

Preceptor in order to pay homage; for, the blowing of conches and the play of

the traditional nine instruments heralded the approach of the ruler of the

realm. Janaka entered with the auspicious sandal paste and rice grains in his

hands, while Sathananda and the entourage entered the sacred residence. With

the delight of gratitude he washed the feet of the Sage. Then, Janaka fell at

the feet of Vishwamitra and stood by the side of the high seat that had been

placed in front of the pedestal for the sage. As soon as Vishwamitra directed

him, Janaka occupied his own seat. Rama and Lakshmana sat on the carpet laid on

the floor to the right of their Master. Janaka said, "Great sage ! Now, what is

your command? I am ready to accept and honour

it. Please communicate it to me". Janaka folded his palms in prayer. At this,

Vishwamitra smiled, and said, "Last night, since there was no time I could not

tell you in detail. I shall tell now about these Princes, Rama and Lakshmana,

since you desired to hear their story. If you have no leisure now, I can tell

you some other time". Janaka exclaimed, "Master! what more important work have

I than experiencing the ecstasy of conversing with you? This chance can be the

fruit only of age long austerity. I am filled with Ananda at the expectation

that you will tell me about them; I consider it great good fortune."

Then, Vishwamitra narrated the incidents that had taken place from his

appearance at the court of Dasaratha up to the Yajna and the heroic way in

which the young boys had stood guard and foiled the attempts of the demons to

desecrate the rituals. He described the bravery and skill of the boys in their

battle against the demons and praised their achievements. During the narration,

tears of joy and gratitude welled from the sage’s eyes and he had to frequently

wipe them with the end of his garment.

Hearing these words and filling his eyes with his majesty and the charming

loveliness of the boys, Janaka experienced supreme delight, the delight he

often derived in Samadhi! He felt that the boys were actual embodiments of

Divine Splendor. Though he often tried to look somewhere else, his eyes

thirsted only for the sight of those charming lotus like faces, which showered

Brahmic illumination! Janaka suppressed with great difficulty the outward

expression of his inner ecstasy and sat looking intently at them, in humility

and reverence. He did not feel for a moment that he was an Emperor and that

those boys were the Princes of another Imperial Monarch. He had an indelible

impression that they had come down from Heaven to Earth; the feeling was

strengthened and increased by the description of their superhuman

might and skill. He realized that they were rare beings, akin to God himself,

for they achieved successfully, even before reaching teenage, the guardianship

of a Yajna, which the renowned Vishwamitra could not carry through unimpaired.

What a marvel! he wondered.

Then, the Sage with the start of the journey towards Mithila resumed the

narrative. The stories related by the sage to the brothers were also explained

to Janaka. When the story of the purification and liberation of Ahalya, the

Consort of Sage Gautama at the hermitage, which was near the Capital City, was

related, Sathananda was surprised beyond measure; he ejaculated, "What! Has my

mother been freed from the curse? Did these Divine personalities render my

mother holy, and restore her to my father? Ah! Without doubt, they are Divine".

While streams of tears of gratitude and joy fell down his cheeks he became so

overcome with emotion that he was unable to move, like a pillar. Vishwamitra

observed him and said, "Son! Do not be so overwhelmed with the little events

that have happened so far! In the coming days,

many events vastly more amazing will happen; they will cause amazement and

ecstasy, by their superhuman glory. Your parents too will arrive at Mithila

City tomorrow or the day after. You can hear the marvelous story of Rama and

Lakshmana direct from them. Calm yourself".

At this Emperor Janaka said, "Master! How fortunate are the parents who have

such divinely endowed sons! 0! How fortunate am I that they stepped into my

house, when the thought spurred them". He turned to Rama and Lakshmana and

addressed them, "Darlings! Pardon me if the residence I have arranged for you

is not quite to your liking or quite in keeping with your status. If you so

desire, I am ever ready to arrange a more appropriate accommodation. If you

like, I shall facilitate ‘sightseeing’ in the City for you are strangers to

Mithila; ask for anything you require, without reservation; I shall feel happy

only when you so ask". To these words spoken with exemplary goodness and

humility, Rama replied in a manner that revealed the respect he liked to offer

Janaka.

He said "Maharaja! We are but boys. We do not feel anything wanting in the

arrangements made. We are quite happy. There is no need to take trouble

arranging somewhere else or something more, for us. If however, you have such

great affection towards us, you can fulfill one wish that we have..." and

without mentioning what it was, he turned towards the Preceptor, Vishwamitra.

The sage then spoke, "Janaka! The mission on which these Princes came with me

from Ayodhya was over when the Yajna I had resolved upon was accomplished

without the least desecration. Rama and Lakshmana pleaded for permission to

return home. Meanwhile, I received your invitation regarding the Yajna you have

decided upon; so, I asked these boys also to accompany me to Mithila. Then, Rama

pleaded that, since his father had deputed him only for

safeguarding the Yajna at my Ashram, he was reluctant to proceed further and be

away from his father longer than permitted. But, I spoke to them of many divine

weapons you have, objects, which they are naturally eager to see and handle. I

described the Bow that you have here, the Siva Bow, which deserves to be seen

by them. I told them the story of that Bow. Then they agreed to accompany me

hither, longing to see it. They have no yearning to go round the City or visit

interesting places; bows, arrows, weapons which can guard the fight and punish

the wicked - these claim first consideration for their attention". Janaka felt

he had no need to hear more. He said, "In that case, I shall make arrangements

to have the Bow brought to the Yajna Hall soon", and instructed that the

preceptor, Sathananda be consulted about an auspicious hour when it could be

brought there.

Meanwhile, Rama asked Janaka, "Maharaja! If you can tell us how that Divine Bow

came into your possession, we can derive great joy." Janaka gave the details

with evident joy. "Darlings: Six generations after Nimi, the great ancestor of

my dynasty, the King named Devaratha ruled over this kingdom. The Gods placed

this Bow of Lord Siva in trust in his palace. It has been with us since then;

it is a weapon of the Gods and so, I assert it is no ordinary Bow! It weighs

some thousands of tones! No one has held it in the erect position so far! For,

who can lift that weight? Many times in the past, I tried to discover who could

bend the Bow and use it or hold it for public gaze and invited people to try.

But I have yet to see one who could do it. Every king and prince who attempted

the feat failed and returned

humiliated. They could neither bend the Bow nor even move it ever so slight. One

day, when I was turning the sod on the grounds where I had resolved to perform

Yajna, a vessel was revealed to view, in the furrow. When I removed it and

examined it, I found in it a charming female child. Since the child came to us

from the furrow, (Sita) we named her Sita, and brought her up as our own child.

One day, when she was playing with her companions, her toy rolled underneath the

long box within which the Bow was kept; the more they tried to recover the ball

with the help of various contrivances, the farther it rolled under the box!

But, our child, Sita laughed at the discomfiture of her companions, and the

palace guards. She pushed aside the box with her tender hand and recovered her

toy to the astonishment of every one! I heard about this, through the Queens

who came to know of it from the wonderstruck group around her at the time.

"That day, I resolved to give Sita in marriage to one who proves himself worthy

to wed her, by stringing that Bow. Many a prince has since tried to lift and

bend that bow, in order to win her, but all of them had to face ignominious

defeat! They felt hurt and insulted; they said I had purposely humiliated them

and in their resentment and despair, they grouped together and fell upon

Mithila City with their combined forces. The siege lasted one full year. As a

consequence, my entire armory was exhausted and I was concerned about the fate

of the City. I had no other recourse but austerity to win the grace of the

Gods. The Gods were pleased; they blessed me with additional reinforcements of

infantry, cavalry, elephantry and chariotry. That is to say, help came to me

from regions behind the besieging forces and when

they were attacked from behind they were scattered. During these campaigns of

vindictiveness, I was able to preserve the Bow; I guarded it like the apple of

my eye. Its mysterious might is beyond description.

"Rama! Ramachandra! I shall not deny you the fulfillment of your wish; if you

but agree, the Bow shall be brought to the Yajna enclosure. I shall also

announce that any one who dare lift and bend it can try to do so." When Janaka

spoke so authoritatively, Rama and Lakshmana looked at each other but did not

reply, for they were waiting for instructions from the Master whom they had

followed so far.

Just then, Vishwamitra, who knew the skill and strength of the brothers, said

that what Janaka proposed could be done, and that he need not apprehend any

obstacle coming his way. Janaka also announced that he would give Sita in

marriage to whosoever lifted the bow and stringed it, for he had vowed that

Sita will be wedded only to such a one. Vishwamitra approved that procedure

too.

Janaka took leave of the sage and returned to the Palace. He set upon the task

of taking the bow into the Yajna Hall. A proclamation was issued that the Bow

will be exposed to view, and communicated to as many kings and princes as

possible. The eight-wheeled vehicle containing the box with the Bow was pulled

and pushed into the enclosure by a large band of hefty heavyweights; but they

could not even move it a step. So, more men of gigantic mould had to be called

in, to lend their hands, dragging the heavy chains attached to the vehicle and

pushing it from behind. When at last the Bow moved into the sacred enclosure,

the priests recited hymns of auspicious welcome.

Day dawned. The nine traditional musical instruments raised a paean of harmony

that rose to the vaults of heaven. Conches were blown in peals. The

auspiciousness of the Day was declared through song and ritual. Emperor Janaka

entered the enclosure, accompanied by a group of priests and with attendants

carrying materials for ceremonial worship of the Divine Bow. Long before that

moment, the enclosure was filled with kings, princes, ministers, courtiers,

Sages and Vedic scholars. As soon as Janaka came in, the entire gathering stood

up in order to render honour to the Ruler of the Realm. The Vedic pundits

declaimed aloud hymns invoking the Gods to shower Grace; their voices rose up

to Heaven in exclamatory unison. Others recited passages from the Vedas. All

were so filled with expectancy that they looked on in

wonder, without even a wink.

Janaka walked in reverence around the vehicle with the Bow, and offered floral

homage to it, while chants were recited to propitiate it. He bowed before the

Divine Bow, and then turned to the distinguished assembly. He announced:

"Prostrations to the Sages! I welcome all who have come to this assembly! Since

many years, my forefathers as well as many other monarchs have been, as you all

know, worshipping this Divine Bow. Besides, it is already well known that no

one, be he a God or Demon, Yaksha, Rakshasa, Garuda or Gandharva, Kinnara or

Mahoraga, no one has so far been able to lift the Bow, hold it and string it!

All who attempted have turned back, humiliated. In spite of this, this day, I

have again resolved to bring the Bow into the sacred enclosure. Whoever among

you assembled here does lift this bow or

lifting, strings it, or stringing it, fixes an arrow on to it, or who can hold

the weight of the Bow in his hands can come forward and take this chance; the

Bow is before you". With these words, Janaka bowed before the gathering with

his palms folded, and sat on the Lion Throne.

Vishwamitra cast a glance, with a smile, at Rama. Rama quickly approached the

vehicle and lifted up the iron cover with his left arm. And with his right, he

raised with no concern or exertion, the Bow from its box! Holding the Bow erect

he looked around, while amazement was on every face! The thousands who witnessed

the wonder - citizens, kings and princes, sages and elders - raised such an

applause that the sky echoed the exultation! Soon Rama stringed the magnificent

Bow! With delightful ease he fixed an arrow! And he drew the string back up to

the ear, in order to release it. But the Bow snapped!

Everyone around was shocked into confusion and fear by the strange, unexpected

explosion. Many fainted; some cried out in terror; some fled in panic. The

sages uttered prayers to God. Why dilate further? The entire gathering, barring

Janaka, Vishwamitra and the brothers, Rama and Lakshmana, was plunged in

inexplicable inconsolable dread!

Meanwhile, Janaka rose from his seat, fell prostrate before Vishwamitra, and

said. "Master! There is no one on earth who can claim greater strength than

Rama; such strength is not of the Earth. I shall fulfill my word; I shall give

Sita in marriage to him who lifted, bent and broke this Bow."

Vishwamitra replied, "Janaka! It will be good if this news is communicated to

Emperor Dasaratha and the auspicious event celebrated after he comes. This is

my desire; Rama is such a deeply dutiful son that he will not agree to the

marriage until Dasaratha gives his approval". So, Janaka had the Brahmins of

the court called to his presence, along with some Ministers. He set them on the

journey to Ayodhya as soon as day dawned. They sped on in their chariots, drawn

by swift horses, for three days and nights, and reached Ayodhya on the morning

of the fourth day. They halted the chariots right before the main entrance of

the Imperial Palace, so that there could be no delay in taking the news they

had brought to the Emperor. When the guards inquired their names and the

purpose of their arrival, the Ministers required

them to announce to the Emperor the fact of their coming from Mithila to see

him. They informed Dasaratha immediately and they were immediately called into

the palace and the Presence.

In spite of old age, Dasaratha looked a Divinely splendorous figure, when the

Brahmins and Ministers of Mithila saw him on his throne. When they stood before

that bright venerable face, they fell at his feet, without any hesitation or

reservation. They stood up and said, "Maharaja! We are messengers from the

Emperor Janaka of Mithila. He has commissioned us to inquire and learn from you

about your welfare and the welfare of your realm. We have been sent with the

approval of sage Vishwamitra, and with the consent of the Royal Preceptor, the

great Sathananda, by Maharaja Janaka to communicate to you an important

message."

Dasaratha’s face was brightened by smiles; his assurance was unshaken; he was

struck by the humility and good manners of the envoys from Mithila. He said, '0

Greatest among Brahmins! 0 Ministers of the Mithila Court! There is no

deficiency in the administration of the kingdom of Ayodhya, no obstruction

anywhere for rituals like Agnihotra; no diminution in the happiness of any of

my subjects, no obstacle from any quarter in the path of their moral and

spiritual advance. My subjects are prosperous; they are progressing steadily

towards the highest goal. I am glad to tell you this. I wish to know about the

health and welfare of Janaka, the Emperor of Mithila, about the uninterrupted

performance, in his kingdom, of the religious rites prescribed in the Vedas.

You can communicate to me without any reservation the

Message you have brought with you. I am eager to hear it".

When Dasaratha granted permission so softly and sweetly the Ministers signed the

Brahmins to speak out. The Chief Priest rose from his seat and delivered the

message thus: "Great Sovereign Ruler! Our Maharaja Janaka has vowed that his

daughter Sita Devi will be given in marriage only to heroic might; no doubt you

must be aware of this, you might also know that many princes have tried to prove

their prowess and returned humiliated from Mithila. By Divine Will, your two

sons Rama and Lakshmana accompanied the Sage Vishwamitra eager to see the great

Yajna, which our Maharaja is celebrating; it happened that your eldest son,

Rama, won Sita Devi by means of his incomparable valor! Maharaja! What shall we

say! How shall we describe it? In full view of the distinguished gathering of

sages, kings and princes, Rama, who

has attained the highest pinnacle of valor, lifted and held the Bow of Siva by

its middle, kept it erect and stringed it! More than this, he broke, as if in

play, the Indomitable sacred Bow into two pieces! Since Sita Devi is to be

given in marriage to him who lifts the Bow of Siva, the sages who had

assembled, as well as our Maharaja, have decided to give her hand to Rama.

"We have been sent to request and receive your assent, to offer you cordial

welcome, to invite you, with the preceptor, priests, ministers, courtiers and

kith and kin, and attendants and followers, to the City of Mithila. Our

Maharaja desires to celebrate the marriage of his daughter after receiving your

Darshan. We are sent by him to your presence, in order to inform you of this".

The priests and ministers stood with folded hands, reverentially awaiting the

reply from Dasaratha. But, Dasaratha rolled it over in his mind with earnest

care and sent for the sages Vasishta, Vamadeva and others, for consultations,

before speaking a word in reply. He also invited the foremost among the

Brahmins of the court. When they all arrived, he asked the party from Mithila

to repeat the message they had brought. When they had listened to the news, he

wanted their comments. But first, Dasaratha fell prostrate before sage Vasistha

and prayed that he should give his approval. Vasistha, Vamadeva and others

responded with joyous acclamations, "Most auspicious"! "Most auspicious"! They

asked, "Why spend further thought on this? Make preparations for the journey to

Mithila"!

The ministers jumped in joy; news of the wedding of Rama spread in a trice all

over the City and into the Inner apartments of the Palace, where the Queens

were. The citizens raised exclamations of "Jai! Jai!" in their exultation.

Attendants and servants quickly made preparations for the journey. Jewels, silk

brocades and other gifts were packed in large quantities and varieties;

countless chariots were loaded with them.

The Emperor and the Imperial Escort, Vasishta the Royal Preceptor, the chief

Priests and other Brahmins and Pundits, ascended their chariots and took their

seats. It was as if Ayodhya itself was moving out to Mithila to witness the

marriage. For all who longed to join, Dasaratha made suitable arrangements. No

one eager to go was left behind! The horses seemed to share the joy that filled

the hearts of the inmates of the chariots; for, they trotted fast, without

slackening speed, or showing signs of exhaustion. Two nights and two days they

spent on the road, and the third night, they reached Mithila!

Maharaja Janaka welcomed Emperor Dasaratha at the very Entrance Gate of his

City. He welcomed the Ministers, Sages and Priests as befitted their position

and status. He arranged that they take rest for the night in allotted

residences. As soon as the day dawned, Dasaratha sent for the rthwiks (priests

who have specialized in ritual lore), the queens and the kinsmen, and alerted

them to be ready and available the moment they were wanted. Meanwhile, Janaka

arrived at the mansion where Dasaratha was, and took him to the special

enclosure where the Yajna was being celebrated. Seats had been allotted there

for the Preceptors, the Emperor and his entourage, according to their rank and

authority.

When all had occupied their seats, Janaka welcomed Dasaratha with the words:

"Your coming to Mithila with these great sages and those foremost Brahmins and

your kinsmen and escort augurs great good fortune for us. It marks the fruition

of the good we have done in past lives. I am sure great joy has filled your

mind, at the valor and victory of your son. I am about to enter into

relationship with the great Raghu dynasty, resplendent with the 'boundless

heroism of its scions. My dynasty is about to be sanctified more then ever

before by this kinship. I believe this is the result of the blessings showered

on me by my forefathers. Maharaja! This morning, the Yajna we have been

celebrating is coming to a close. I have thought of celebrating the marriage of

Sita and Rama after the conclusion of the Yajna. I plead with

you to confer your assent."

Dasaratha thrilled with Ananda. His face was lit by bright smiles. He said,

"Maharaja! You are the donor; elders declare that a gift is to be received at

the sweet will and pleasure of the donor! So I am ever prepared to take the

gift whenever it pleases you!" When Dasaratha spoke with such wit and wisdom,

with such heart-melting warmth of affection, Janaka was overwhelmed with Ananda

surging within him.

By then, Rama and Lakshmana entered the enclosure with the Sage Vishwamitra;

they prostrated before their father and their preceptors - Vasishtha, Vamadeva

and others. Dasaratha’s eyes glistened with delight as they fell upon the sons

he had missed so long. He drew them to himself; he placed his hands on their

shoulders; he pressed them to his bosom. Seeing the Ananda of the father while

fondling his sons the Brahmins and ministers forgot themselves in appreciation

of the depth of his affection. They were lost in admiration.

Dasaratha conversed intimately with his sons, and listened to their sweet simple

descriptions of the Yajna which they guarded from desecration by demonic forces;

they told him the incidents of the journey from the hermitage of Vishwamitra to

Mithila City. Bharatha and Satrughna, Sumantra and many ministers, courtiers,

and nobles heard also by Vasishtha, Vamadeva and other sages, as well as the

narrative. They spent the night recapitulating the wonder and mystery that

formed the warp and woof of that narrative.

Meanwhile, Janaka was immersed in preparations for the wedding. He was mostly in

the palace itself; he invited the Chief Priest, Sathananda, to the court, and

prayed to him reverentially to start collecting men and materials for the

various rites preliminary to the actual wedding rite. The sage replied,

"Maharaja! The Yajna concluded just today. During the next two or three days,

there are, I notice, a few hours that are auspicious for the ceremonials. I can

give details, if you desire to know".

At this, Janaka said saluting Sathananda and standing with folded hands,

"Master! I received the assent of the Emperor Dasaratha, last night. This is

indeed a sign of extreme good fortune. My younger brother Kusadhwaja is not

present here now; he was all these days very busy supplying provisions for the

Yajna as and when the high priests asked for them. I am reluctant to celebrate

this most auspicious ceremony without his being present by my side. I do not

want to deprive him of his share of joy. I have set afoot plans to get him here

quickly. I feel it would be best if we fix the day and hour after his arrival".

Sathananda responded, "Good! Good! That will make us all happy beyond

calculation!" With this, he left the palace.

Janaka sent messengers with instructions that they should bring the brother to

Mithila, with expedition. They found him in his capital City, Sankasya, for,

they were taken thither by fleet - footed horses which sped faster than others.

They reported to him the developments at Mithila, in detail; Kusadhwaja was

overcome with the flood of Ananda that surged through him. He collected his

kith and kin, as well as his entourage, in great haste; he had chariots loaded

with gifts and presents, offerings and precious materials. He started off that

very night and quickly reached Mithila.

Janaka hastened to meet him, for, he was counting the minutes that were hurrying

by. He clasped his brother in fond embrace; he was filled with inexpressible

delight. Kusadhwaja fell at the feet of his elder brother; he prostrated before

Sathananda, and then all three sat on raised seats, in order to deliberate on

the further course of action. They consulted among themselves and when they

decided finally on what they have to do, they sent for the highly respected

elder statesman, Sudhama, and told him: "Minister of State! Proceed now to the

Presence of Dasaratha and pray to him to come here, to this Palace with his

Ministers, Priests, Courtiers, kinsmen and others he would like to bring with

him. Bring him with due honours".

TO BE CONTINUED

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